Big Ben and Landmarks

Big Ben is indeed a notable landmark and cultural icon worth visiting. However, there are a few important things to note about Big Ben. First, it’s essential to understand that the name “Big Ben” technically refers to the Great Bell housed within the clock tower, rather than the tower itself. The tower itself is commonly known as the Elizabeth Tower, although it was previously called the Clock Tower.

Located at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London, England, Big Ben is renowned for its striking Victorian Gothic architecture. It stands as a symbol of the city and has become an iconic representation of British history and culture.

Here are a few key facts about Big Ben and the Elizabeth Tower:

Height and Dimensions: The Elizabeth Tower stands at a height of approximately 96 meters (315 feet) and features a distinctive clock face on each of its four sides. The diameter of each clock face is around 7 meters (23 feet).

Great Bell: The Great Bell, also known as Big Ben, weighs around 13.7 metric tons (15.1 imperial tons) and produces the melodious chimes that are often associated with the tower. However, due to ongoing renovations, the bell has been silent since 2017 and is expected to remain so until 2022.

History: The construction of the Elizabeth Tower was completed in 1859, and the Great Bell was installed shortly after. The tower was renamed the Elizabeth Tower in 2012 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee.

Access: While the interior of the Elizabeth Tower is not open to the general public, visitors can still admire the tower’s grandeur and take photographs from the outside. However, it’s important to note that access to certain areas surrounding the Palace of Westminster, including the tower, may be restricted at times due to security measures.

When planning a trip to London, it’s worth considering that there are numerous other captivating landmarks and attractions to explore in addition to Big Ben. These include the nearby Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the British Museum, and many more.